Following reported outbreaks of anthrax in Tajikistan and Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan is implementing heightened border controls to prevent the disease from entering the country. Farhod Qurbonbekov, Head of Department at the Committee of Sanitary-Epidemiological Wellbeing and Public Health, announced the increased vigilance.
According to Qurbonbekov, the country has established comprehensive infrastructure for diagnosing and treating the disease should any suspected cases arise. Furthermore, soil samples will be collected from potential infection sites and subjected to regular laboratory monitoring.
“To prevent the disease from entering the country, enhanced inspections are being carried out on individuals crossing the border at 55 border points. Necessary measures have been developed to prevent the spread of infection at these points,” the specialist stated.
Anthrax is caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis and is a highly contagious disease primarily transmitted from animals. It is classified as a particularly dangerous infection.
Infection leads to fever and affects the skin, lungs, and intestines. All animal species, as well as humans, are susceptible. Transmission to humans typically occurs through contact with infected animals during care, slaughter, or consumption of undercooked meat.
The cutaneous form of anthrax is the most common. With timely treatment, it generally has a mild course and leaves no lasting effects. More severe forms, including septicemic, intestinal, and pulmonary anthrax, are typically fatal.